What Is Shingles And How Can You Get Relief?

Shingles is a viral infection inside the body that causes a rash that occurs on just one side of the body. This rash can be very painful to the touch and affect the nerves inside the body so that with every single move you make, it can feel painful. With shingles, it can be anywhere on just one side, including the face, which can be very dangerous, especially if it's too close to the eyes. Shingles is treatable and can also be prevented with a shingles vaccination or at least the symptoms can be less with the vaccine. If you have had chickenpox in the past, you could end up getting shingles in the future. Read on for more information about shingles and what you can do to find relief.

What Causes Shingles?

Anyone that has had chickenpox already has this virus in the body, it lays dormant and can make its presence later down the road in your life as you age. It can be caused by high levels of stress, it can occur while pregnant or just with age. Not everyone that has had chickenpox will get shingles, but you are more than likely to get it if you have had chickenpox in the past. 

What Does It Look Like?

Shingles looks like a rash, it has red bumps similar to a rash, although it may only start with a red bump here and there. The skin will swell in some areas and may also appear to crust along the edges of the rash area. It is only located on one side of the body (to the left or right) of the spine. 

How Is It Treated?

Shingles is treated with medication such as antibiotics and pain relievers. You can also use an anti-itch ointment to help offer relief from the itchiness of this rash. Apply the ointment using a cotton ball and apply it throughout the day as needed. Apply a cool washcloth to the rash to help with any pain and to offer you some relief. If you are pregnant, you should consult your obstetrician about what medications are safe for both you and your baby.

If you have shingles, or suspect you have shingles, you should go to a dermatologist for treatment. If you have any type of rash that is causing you pain or you aren't sure what it is caused from, get to the dermatologist.